What is organic food?
Organic food is produced by farmers who emphasize the use of renewable resources and the conservation of soil and water to enhance environmental quality for future generations. Organic meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products come from animals that have not been given antibiotics or growth hormones.
Are organic growers allowed to use chemicals?
Organic food is produced without using conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering, or ionizing radiation.
How do I know if a product is really organic?
Look for the USDA Organic label. Before a product can be labeled organic, a government-appointed certifier must inspect the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farm is following all of the rules necessary to meet USDA standards. Companies that handle or process organic food before it reaches your supermarket or restaurant must also be certified.
Why do organics tend to cost more?
Good old fashion labor replaces what the chemicals and pesticides in conventional farming typically do in regards to weed and pest management. In produce there are no genetically modified organisms just old fashioned vegetable products that tend to have shorter shelf life making them more perishable. Certified Orgainc Farms also have yearly expenses associated with maintaining certification status.
The word “sustainable” keeps popping up what does that really mean when it comes to food?
Sustainable in agriculture has been defined as ecologically sound, economically viable, socially just and humane. It referrers to farming practices that leave the land healthier and more productive after harvest than before.
Would products grown under these conditions be considered organic?
Food must have the USDA seal to be considered organic unless a grower sells less than $5000 worth of products a year and they are following all of the USDA standards they can label their products organic.
What about "all natural" when it comes to food?
All natural and sustainable are practices of agriculture that do not have any definitive set of legal guidelines under the USDA. Farms can engage in any farming practices that they choose and still us the terms all natural or sustainable. It is very important that you get to know the practices of the farms where your food is grown and the farmers that produce them. Ask them questions; those who are reputable growers will welcome the educated consumer. If it is not possible to visit your local farm or farmers market then simply trust products with the USDA organic seal.
What are the benefits of grass fed or free-range?
Products from grass fed animals have higher vitamin content, significantly higher amounts of essential fatty acids, primarily omega 3, and are lower in calories and saturated fat. Management intensive grazing, is a practice of allowing livestock to graze pastures in sequential stages. Livestock eat the plants at their optimum time allowing the plants to remain young and vital. Young vegetation contains more protein and energy and is richer in antioxidants. This in turn produces an optimal healthy product and keeps the animals in the most natural conditions.
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